STAFF at Bridgewater Paper have been laid off work for a week and face a further nine days at home next month.

One worker, who does not wish to be named, claims the company only announced the move a week before the first lay-off came into effect this Monday.

But a Bridgewater spokesman says there is no need for any staff to lose out on wages after an agreement was reached over the future working of additional hours.

The employee who contacted the Pioneer said: 'The management have told us, apart from a skeleton crew, the mill will lay off workers without pay, other than a small shift allowance, this week and for nine days starting Christmas Eve.

'The news came as a shock after a very profitable year. Only last month we were congratulated on gaining record production and machine efficiencies.

'Although there is a downturn in the market other mills, including Shotton Paper in Deeside, are not taking any down-time. It means an average worker will lose six-nine shift payments with only one week's notice.'

He added: 'To add insult to injury the company will not be contributing to the pension scheme for this time period. Therefore, the average worker will lose £700, receive no company help, obtain £120 through basic Government aid but will have to pay £50 into the pension scheme.'

But Bridgewater spokesman Robin Dawson says the company only took action as a last resort.

He said: 'It's been brought about by a weakening in the market and the speed it's happened. Our stock has grown to an unacceptable level. We did write to all staff last week and made it clear only a skeleton staff would be required this week and for nine days from Christmas Eve.

'But there is an agreed option for staff to work additional hours in the future and there is no need for any staff to suffer a pay reduction. I would also stress the company has not suspended pension scheme payments.'